“Just a Housewife”

This past week I had two conversations that stuck in my mind and heart.  One was when  dear lady told me that after holding many responsibilities with titles, she was now “Just a housewife.” The other woman told me she was a part-time housewife and wished it was full-time.

Every woman probably has her own definition of what a housewife does and how she feels about that role.  As a full-time housewife for 37 years, I can say that I have had my share of insinuations from others that my role was a little less than favorable.  By the world’s standards, I suppose it is, but as a follower of Jesus Christ, I get my job description from Him.  Here’s what we learn from Scripture about being a housewife:

1. Being a housewife is a high calling from God. Eve was given the responsibility and description of her role in the Garden.
   

   Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.

   If that verse makes you shiver, remember that it came from a wise, loving God.
   Anything with two heads is a monster – including our homes.  God’s plan is wise and good.

2. In Titus 2 we learn that being a housewife is to be a keeper at home.  That doesn’t mean she can’t work outside the home, and certainly many single women have to work to support their family.  But if it’s possible, the best scenario is that a wife be in the home.  If for no other reason, there is so much to do, that working this job alone will keep a woman busy morning to night.
3. Being a housewife should never be thought of as “doing nothing.”  Loving her husband, caring for her children, cooking, keeping check on her flock as a sweet influence in their lives to teach, train, provide and mature them in Christ, is a position of high influence that could change the world for the glory of God.

If you are a stay-at-home wife, don’t hang your head in shame or embarrassment. Your position was given to you by the Lord, and though you aren’t receiving a pay check each week, the investment you’re making will make you and your family rich in far greater ways!

If you’re a “part-time” housewife, don’t let guilt overwhelm you.  Just try to keep your priorities straight by not obligating your free time to other things that will make it even harder to care for your family when you can be home.

Who else will love and care for our family if we don’t?  Give it your best – it’s a huge investment for eternity’s sake!

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